Good morning. It’s a bit wild here this morning so unfortunately, all of this morning’s photos will have to come from calmer conditions earlier on in the week.
Teasel:
A member of the buttercup family:
Banded snail:
The washland on Friday morning:
Image credits: David White
It turned out to be a lovely day on Friday and there were several bitterns booming out on the reserve. One was even booming in full view in front of New Fen viewpoint, which is very unusual indeed.
At least seven marsh harriers were hunting west of Joist Fen viewpoint and a sand martin was heard over the Washland viewpoint. At least six cranes were seen west of Joist Fen viewpoint and good numbers of bearded tits were showing in the same area.
A stoat was seen at the edge of the car park. There were also plenty of butterflies on the wing. This included several brimstones, peacocks and small tortoiseshells.
The willow tit made a cameo appearance on the peanut feeders in front of the visitor centre at around 16.30. Unfortunately, this was the first sighting since 06.05 so it wasn’t showing very well!
The willow tit was showing slightly more regularly on Saturday. Two cranes were seen north of the river near Joist Fen viewpoint and a chiffchaff was singing at the far end of the reserve.
There was plenty to see yesterday including six cranes from Joist Fen viewpoint and at least two great white egrets on the washland. Several water pipits in breeding plumage were also showing well near the Washland viewpoint.
A swallow was seen from Joist Fen viewpoint and two red kites were seen over West Wood. Two otters were seen from New Fen viewpoint and a common snipe was showing well from the visitor centre window. The willow tit was also seen a couple of times on the peanut feeders.
I saw at least five roe deer grazing alongside the entrance track as I drove in this morning. Despite the far from ideal weather conditions, the willow tit has been making fairly regular visits to the peanut feeder so far so it’s good to know that it’s still around.
I have just about enough space to give you an update on the state of the paths around the reserve. On the whole, going is fine apart from the riverbank Public Footpath which is still muddy in places. The grassy path that runs along the southern edge of West Wood is also quite wet in places. We therefore suggest that if you plan on visiting, at least walking boots are essential.
There is plenty to see at the moment so why not come and visit? We hope to see you soon!